Several Indonesian Volcanoes Erupt Simultaneously, Says Geology Expert
A professor at the Faculty of Geological Engineering at Universitas Padjadjaran (FTG Unpad), Prof. Nana Sulaksana, has said that volcanic activity in neighbouring areas has no direct correlation, because each volcano has a distinct magmatic system.
Prof. Nana explained that these differences are influenced by the depth of the magma chamber, the pathway the magma travels, and the geological conditions and rock through which the magma passes before reaching the surface.
“So, directly speaking, there is no connection between one volcano and another,” he said.
He explained that the activity of each volcano must be monitored according to its own characteristics and data, meaning that increased activity at one volcano cannot serve as a direct indicator for another.
“Each volcano has its own system, depending on the depth of the magma chamber, the journey of the magma, and the rock it passes through,” he said.
The statement was a response to the activity of several Indonesian volcanoes recorded erupting within a period close to that of Mount Anak Krakatau, including Mount Ibu, Semeru, Lewotobi Laki-laki, Ili Lewotolok and Sinabung.
He believes this situation does not indicate any direct connection between the volcanic activities.
On the same occasion, Prof. Nana also said that Mount Anak Krakatau itself is being intensively monitored using various instruments to track the development of its volcanic activity.
Monitoring is carried out using seismographs to detect seismic activity caused by magma movement, as well as GPS-based geodetic instruments to measure changes or micro-movements in the volcano’s body.
“Under this monitoring, there are several variables being observed, including the movement of magma from deep within the earth. This movement is visible on seismographs installed at a minimum of three points on the volcano’s body,” he said.
In addition, monitoring is reinforced by visual observation of smoke plumes, internet-connected CCTV cameras, and multi-gas analysis to detect changes in the volcano’s activity.
Data on past eruptions and geological maps are also used as considerations in determining a volcano’s status.
Nana noted that Indonesia has a high level of geological hazard because it sits at the meeting point of three tectonic plates and within the Pacific Ring of Fire.